Filter interconnect utilizing correlated magnetic actuation for downstream system function

ABSTRACT

A filtration system interconnection structure having a filter manifold including a sump housing and a first correlated magnet located on or connected to a portion of the manifold, and a filter cartridge including a filter media, first and second end caps sealed to the filter media, and a second, paired correlated magnet located on or connected to the filter cartridge housing body. The first and second correlated magnets are interconnected via magnetic communication upon insertion of the filter cartridge into the sump housing, and upon movement of the filter cartridge into an alignment position, the correlated magnet located on or connected to the manifold is permitted to translate as a result of the magnetic communication. The polarity profiles of the paired correlated magnets are aligned such that a repulsion force is created when the filter cartridge is inserted within the manifold sump housing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the interconnection scheme between afilter cartridge and its corresponding manifold. The invention utilizesa correlated magnetism design that encompasses correlated magnets, andmore specifically a magnetic attraction, repulsion, or combinationthereof to generate shear force, is introduced upon filter cartridgeinsertion into a mating manifold to aid in interconnection. In exemplaryaspects, the interconnection scheme utilizes magnetic repulsion to aidin filter cartridge installation and/or removal. The function of thecorrelated magnetism in the present invention is at least two-fold:first, an upstream valve is actuated during initial installation of afilter cartridge into a mating manifold through non-electronic andnon-contact actuation of a switch, and second, a magnetic repulsionforce is introduced upon rotation to assist in filter cartridge removalfrom the manifold.

2. Description of Related Art

Correlated magnet designs were introduced in U.S. Pat. No. 7,800,471issued to Cedar Ridge Research LLC on Sep. 21, 2010, entitled “FIELDEMISSION SYSTEM AND METHOD.” This patent describes field emissionstructures having electric or magnetic field sources. The magnitudes,polarities, and positions of the magnetic or electric field sources areconfigured to have desirable correlation properties, which are inaccordance with a predetermined code. The correlation propertiescorrespond to a special force function where spatial forces correspondto relative alignment, separation distance, and a spatial forcefunction.

In U.S. Pat. No. 7,817,006, issued to Cedar Ridge Research LLC on Oct.19, 2010, titled “APPARATUS AND METHODS RELATING TO PRECISIONATTACHMENTS BETWEEN FIRST AND SECOND COMPONENTS (a related patent toU.S. Pat. No. 7,800,471), an attachment scheme between first and secondcomponents is taught. Generally, a first component includes a firstfield emission structure and the second component includes a secondfield emission structure, wherein each field emission structure includesmultiple magnetic field emission sources (magnetic array) havingpositions and polarities relating to a predefined spatial force functionthat corresponds to a predetermined alignment of the field emissionstructures. The components are adapted to be attached to each other whenthe first field emission structure is in proximity of the second fieldemission structure.

When correlated magnets are brought into alignment with complementary ormirror image counterparts, the various magnetic field emission sourcesthat make up each correlated magnet will align causing a peak spatialattraction or repulsion force, while a misalignment will cause thevarious magnetic field emission sources to substantially cancel eachother out. The spatial forces (attraction, repulsion) have a magnitudethat is a function of the relative alignment of two magnetic fieldemission structures, the magnetic field strengths, and their variouspolarities.

It is possible for the field emissions sources of correlated magnets tobe varied in accordance with a “code”, such that magnetic systems can bemade to have a desired behavior without mechanical constraint, orwithout requiring a holding mechanism to prevent magnetic forces from“flipping” a magnet. As an illustrative example of this magnetic action,an apparatus 1000 of the prior art is depicted in FIG. 1 . Apparatus1000 includes a first component 1002 and a second component 1012. Thefirst component includes a first field emission structure 1004comprising multiple field emission sources 1006. The second componentincludes a second field emission structure 1014 comprising multiplefield emission sources 1016. The first and second components are adaptedto attach to one another when the first field emission structure 1004 isin proximity of the second field emission structure 1014, that is, theyare in a predetermined alignment with respect to one another.

The first field emission structure 1004 may be configured to interactwith the second field emission structure 1014 such that the secondcomponent 1012 can be aligned to become attached (attracted) to thefirst component 1002 or misaligned to become removed (repulsed) from thefirst component. The first component 1002 can be released from thesecond component 1012 when their respective first and second fieldemission structures 1004 and 1014 are moved with respect to one anotherto become misaligned.

Generally, the precision within which two or more field emissionstructures tend to align increases as the number N of different fieldemission sources in each field emission structure increases, includingfor a given surface area A. In other words, alignment precision may beincreased by increasing the number N of field emission sources formingtwo field emission structures. More specifically, alignment precisionmay be increased by increasing the number N of field emission sourcesincluded within a given surface area A.

In U.S. Pat. No. 7,893,803 issued to Cedar Ridge Research LLC on Feb.22, 2011, titled “CORRELATED MAGNETIC COUPLING DEVICE AND METHOD FORUSING THE CORRELATED COUPLING DEVICE,” a compressed gas system componentcoupling device is taught that uses the correlated magnet attachmentscheme discussed above.

An illustrative example of this coupling device is shown in FIG. 2 ,which depicts a quick connect air hose coupling 1200 having a femaleelement 1202 and a male element 1204.

The female element 1202 includes a first magnetic field emissionstructure 1218. The male element 1204 includes a second magnetic fieldemission structure 1222. Both magnetic field emission structures aregenerally planar and are in accordance with the same code but are amirror image of one another. The operable coupling and sealing of theconnector components 1202, 1204 is accomplished with sufficient force tofacilitate a substantially airtight seal therebetween.

The removal or separation of the male element 1204 from the femaleelement 1202 is accomplished by separating the attached first and secondfield emission structures 1218 and 1222. The male element is releasedwhen the male element is rotated with respect to the female element,which in turn misaligns the first and second magnetic field emissionstructures.

A description of the precision alignments of polymagnets can be foundat:

-   -   http://www.polymagnet.com/media/Polymagnet-White-Paper-3-Smart-Magnets-for-Precision-Alignment.pdf.

Prior art filter interconnects present numerous technical hurdles,particularly with respect to downstream electronic functionality. Suchtechnical hurdles include preventing fluid from leaking into or reachingthe electronic components of the filter housing either during initialfilter cartridge installation or during operation.

Therefore, a need exists for an improved filter interconnect whichovercomes these technical hurdles, without substantially increasing thecost and complexity of manufacture.

The present invention adapts the correlated magnet technology describedabove to an interconnection structure for a filter cartridge and acorresponding manifold to resolve many of the technical hurdles of priorart filter interconnects with downstream electronic functionality.

As described herein, the correlated magnet technology has a variety ofimplementations in filter interconnect structures, including, forexample, in actuation of valves or switches, as well as in improvedfilter authentication and anti-counterfeiting measures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Bearing in mind the problems and deficiencies of the prior art, it istherefore an object of the present invention to provide an improvedfilter interconnect structure for a filter cartridge and a correspondingfilter manifold which utilizes correlated magnetism.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an improvedfilter interconnect which utilizes correlated magnetism to provide theinitial drive to engage downstream system functionality.

A further object of the invention is to provide an improved filterinterconnect and method of installing a filter cartridge in acorresponding filter manifold which allows for non-electronic andnon-contacting actuation of downstream electronic system components.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an improvedfilter interconnect which prevents leaking by dissociating the initialfilter cartridge installation from the actuation of an upstream and/ordownstream valve.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an improvedfilter interconnect which utilizes correlated magnetism to provide aneffective authentication and/or anti-counterfeiting means for ensuringproper filter cartridge installation.

Still other objects and advantages of the invention will in part beobvious and will in part be apparent from the specification.

The above and other objects, which will be apparent to those skilled inthe art, are achieved in the present invention which is directed in oneaspect to a filtration system comprising a filter manifold including asump, an electronic switch assembly comprising a circuit actuablebetween open and closed positions, the switch assembly radially disposedwith respect to the sump, and a first correlated magnet operably coupledto the switch assembly. The first correlated magnet comprises aplurality of magnetic field emission sources having positions andpolarities relating to a predefined spatial force function thatcorresponds to a predetermined alignment of the plurality of magneticfield emission sources. The filtration system further comprises a filtercartridge including a filter media, first and second end caps sealed tothe filter media, a body disposed between the first and second end caps,and a complementary or paired second correlated magnet radially disposedon one of the first or second end caps proximate an outside surface ofthe filter cartridge body. In an embodiment, one of the filter cartridgefirst or second end caps includes an axially-extending portion integralwith or connected thereto and proximate the outside surface of thefilter cartridge body, and the second correlated magnet is disposedwithin the axially-extending portion.

The first and second correlated polymagnets are interconnected viamagnetic communication upon insertion of the filter cartridge into thesump housing, and upon movement of the filter cartridge into analignment position, the first correlated magnet translates transverselywith respect to a longitudinal axis of the sump as a result of themagnetic communication to contact an actuator to activate the switch. Inat least one embodiment, the manifold further includes a valve, whereinactivation of the switch actuates the valve to turn on and turn offfluid flow to the filter cartridge.

In an embodiment, the first correlated magnet plurality of magneticfield emission sources are aligned with a plurality of magnetic fieldemission sources of the second correlated magnet, such that a repulsionforce is generated between the magnets when the filter cartridge isinserted within the sump and rotated to the alignment position.

The sump may include an alignment thread or channel for mechanicallycoupling with a filter boss or lug extending radially outwards from oneof the first or second end caps when the filter cartridge is insertedwithin the sump and rotated to the alignment position. In an embodiment,the filter cartridge rotates approximately 90-degrees in a firstdirection from an initial insertion position within the sump to thealignment position.

The filtration system may further include a radially-extending lockingplate including an aperture for permitting insertion of the filtercartridge into the sump, the locking plate including an alignment threador channel for mechanically coupling with a boss or lug of a removablelocking cover when the filter cartridge is inserted within the sump. Thelocking cover is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the sump totranslate the filter cartridge axially into the alignment position.

In an embodiment, the first correlated magnet is disposed within atranslatable magnet housing of the switch assembly, the magnet housingnormally biased towards the longitudinal axis of the sump by a springand slidable linearly as a result of the magnetic communication in adirection normal to the longitudinal axis of the sump to contact theactuator to activate the switch upon movement of the filter cartridgeinto an alignment position.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a filtercartridge comprising a filter media, first and second end caps sealed tothe filter media, a body disposed between the first and second end caps,and a first correlated magnet radially disposed on one of the first orsecond end caps proximate an outside surface of the filter cartridgebody. One of the first or second end caps may include anaxially-extending portion integral with or connected thereto andproximate the outside surface of the body, and the first correlatedmagnet may be disposed within the axially-extending portion. The firstcorrelated magnet comprises a plurality of magnetic field emissionsources having positions and polarities relating to a predefined spatialforce function that corresponds to a predetermined alignment of theplurality of magnetic field emission sources. The first correlatedmagnet is adapted to be in close proximity to a complementary or pairedsecond correlated magnet when the filter cartridge is inserted within asump of a filter manifold and moved into an alignment position.

The filter cartridge body may further include a sheath or sleevecovering the filter media and disposed between the first and second endcaps. In an embodiment, the filter cartridge may further include afilter boss or lug extending radially outwards from one of the first orsecond end caps, the filter boss or lug adapted for mechanicallycoupling with an alignment thread or channel of the sump housing as thefilter cartridge is rotated to the alignment position.

In still another aspect, the present invention is directed to a methodof interconnecting a filter cartridge and filter manifold, comprising:inserting the filter cartridge comprising a correlated magnet radiallydisposed on one of the first or second end caps proximate an outsidesurface of the filter cartridge body as described above into a sump ofthe filter manifold; moving the filter cartridge within the sump into analignment position; aligning the first correlated magnet plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources with a plurality of magnetic fieldemission sources of a complementary or paired second correlated magnetsuch that a repulsion force is generated between the magnets, the secondcorrelated magnet operably coupled to a switch assembly radiallydisposed with respect to the sump; and causing the second correlatedmagnet to translate transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis ofthe sump as a result of magnetic repulsion to contact an actuator toactivate the switch.

The sump may include an alignment thread or channel for mechanicallycoupling with a filter boss or lug extending radially outwards from oneof the first or second end caps, and the method may further comprise thesteps of: aligning the filter boss or lug with the alignment thread orchannel while inserting the filter cartridge within the sump, andcausing the filter boss or lug to travel to an end of the alignmentthread or channel while rotating the filter cartridge to the alignmentposition.

In an embodiment, the filter manifold may further include aradially-extending locking plate including an aperture for permittinginsertion of the filter cartridge into the sump, the locking plateincluding an alignment thread or channel for mechanically coupling witha boss or lug of a removable locking cover when the filter cartridge isinserted within the sump, the locking cover rotatable about thelongitudinal axis of the sump to translate the filter cartridge axiallyinto the alignment position, and the method may further include thesteps of: aligning the locking cover boss or lug with the locking platealignment thread or channel while inserting the filter cartridge withinthe sump; and rotating the locking cover to cause the boss or lug totravel to an end of the alignment thread or channel to move filtercartridge to the alignment position.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a filtrationsystem comprising a filter manifold including a sump, an electronicswitch assembly comprising a circuit actuable between open and closedpositions, the switch assembly axially disposed with respect to thesump, and a first correlated magnet operably coupled to the switchassembly, the first correlated magnet comprising a plurality of magneticfield emission sources having positions and polarities relating to apredefined spatial force function that corresponds to a predeterminedalignment of the plurality of magnetic field emission sources. Thefiltration system further comprises a filter cartridge including ahousing having a body, a filter media disposed with the housing body, afilter head forming a fluid-tight seal with the body, and acomplementary or paired second correlated magnet disposed within orconnected to the filter head and having a face oriented parallel to atop surface thereof, the second correlated magnet rotatable with thefilter cartridge. In an embodiment, the filter cartridge furtherincludes an axial stem and the second correlated magnet is disposedwithin the axial stem, parallel to the top surface of the filter head.The first and second correlated polymagnets are interconnected viamagnetic communication upon insertion of the filter cartridge into thesump housing, and upon rotation of the filter cartridge into analignment position, the first correlated magnet translates axially withrespect to a longitudinal axis of the sump as a result of the magneticcommunication to contact an actuator to activate the switch. In at leastone embodiment, the manifold further includes a valve, whereinactivation of the switch actuates the valve to turn on and turn offfluid flow to the filter cartridge.

In an embodiment, the first correlated magnet plurality of magneticfield emission sources are aligned with a plurality of magnetic fieldemission sources of the second correlated magnet, such that a repulsionforce is generated between the magnets when the filter cartridge isinserted within the sump and rotated to the alignment position.

The sump may further include an alignment thread or channel formechanically coupling with a filter boss or lug extending radiallyoutwards from the filter cartridge housing body when the filtercartridge is inserted within the sump and rotated to the alignmentposition. In an embodiment, the filter cartridge rotates approximately90-degrees in a first direction from an initial insertion positionwithin the sump to the alignment position.

In an embodiment, the first correlated magnet is disposed within atranslatable magnet holder of the switch assembly, the magnet holdernormally biased towards the filter head by a spring and slidable axiallyalong the longitudinal axis of the sump as a result of the magneticcommunication to contact the actuator to activate the switch uponrotation of the filter cartridge into an alignment position.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a filtrationsystem comprising a filter manifold including a sump, an electronicswitch assembly comprising a circuit actuable between open and closedpositions, the switch assembly axially disposed with respect to thesump, and a first correlated magnet operably coupled to the switchassembly, the first correlated magnet comprising a plurality of magneticfield emission sources having positions and polarities relating to apredefined spatial force function that corresponds to a predeterminedalignment of the plurality of magnetic field emission sources. Thefiltration system further comprises a filter cartridge including ahousing having a body, a filter media disposed with the housing body, afilter head forming a fluid-tight seal with the body, and acomplementary or paired second correlated magnet disposed within orconnected to the filter head and having a face oriented parallel to atop surface thereof. The first correlated magnet plurality of magneticfield emission sources are aligned with a plurality of magnetic fieldemission sources of the second correlated magnet such that a repulsionforce is generated between the magnets when the filter cartridge isinserted within the sump and translated axially to an alignmentposition, and upon axial movement of the filter cartridge into thealignment position, the first correlated magnet translates axially withrespect to a longitudinal axis of the sump as a result of the magneticrepulsion to contact an actuator to activate the switch.

In an embodiment, the first and second correlated magnet plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources are arranged concentrically.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a filtercartridge comprising a housing having a body, a filter media disposedwithin the housing body, a filter head forming a fluid-tight seal withthe body, and a first correlated magnet disposed within or connected tothe filter head and having a face oriented parallel to a top surfacethereof. In an embodiment, the filter cartridge further includes anaxial stem and the first correlated magnet is disposed in the axialstem, parallel to the top surface of the filter head. The firstcorrelated magnet comprises a plurality of magnetic field emissionsources having positions and polarities relating to a predefined spatialforce function that corresponds to a predetermined alignment of theplurality of magnetic field emission sources. The first correlatedmagnet is adapted to be in close proximity to a complementary or pairedsecond correlated magnet when the filter cartridge is inserted within asump of a filter manifold and rotated into an alignment position.

The filter cartridge may further include a filter boss or lug extendingradially from the housing body, the filter boss or lug adapted formechanically coupling with an alignment thread or channel of the sump.

In still another aspect, the present invention is directed to a methodof interconnecting a filter cartridge and filter manifold, comprising:inserting a filter cartridge comprising a correlated magnet disposedwithin or connected to the filter head and having a face orientedparallel to a top surface thereof, as described above, into a sump ofthe filter manifold; rotating the filter cartridge within the sump intoan alignment position; aligning the first correlated magnet plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources with a plurality of magnetic fieldemission sources of a complementary or paired second correlated magnetsuch that a repulsion force is generated between the magnets, the secondcorrelated magnet operably coupled to a switch assembly axially disposedwith respect to the sump; and causing the second correlated magnet totranslate axially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the sump as aresult of magnetic repulsion to contact an actuator to activate theswitch.

The sump may further include an alignment thread or channel formechanically coupling with a filter boss or lug extending radiallyoutwards from the filter cartridge housing body, and the method mayfurther comprise the steps of: aligning the filter boss or lug with thealignment thread or channel while inserting the filter cartridge withinthe sump; and causing the filter boss or lug to travel to an end of thealignment thread or channel while rotating the filter cartridge to thealignment position.

In still yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to afiltration system comprising a filter manifold including a sump, anelectronic switch assembly comprising a circuit actuable between openand closed positions, the switch assembly radially disposed with respectto the sump, and a first correlated magnet operably coupled to theswitch assembly, the first correlated magnet comprising a plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources having positions and polarities relatingto a predefined spatial force function that corresponds to apredetermined alignment of the plurality of magnetic field emissionsources. The filtration system further comprises a filter cartridgeincluding a housing having a body and a top portion forming afluid-tight seal with the body, the top portion including ingress andegress fluid ports and an axially-extending protrusion integral with orconnected to the housing top portion, a filter media disposed with thehousing body, and a complementary or paired second correlated magnetdisposed within or connected to the housing top portionaxially-extending protrusion and having a face oriented parallel to alongitudinal axis of the housing body. The first and second correlatedpolymagnets are interconnected via magnetic communication upon axialinsertion of the filter cartridge into an alignment position within thesump, and upon movement of the filter cartridge into the alignmentposition, the first correlated magnet translates in a direction normalto a longitudinal axis of the sump as a result of the magneticcommunication to contact an actuator to activate the switch. In at leastone embodiment, the manifold further includes a valve, whereinactivation of the switch actuates the valve to turn on and turn offfluid flow to the filter cartridge.

In an embodiment, the first correlated magnet plurality of magneticfield emission sources are aligned with a plurality of magnetic fieldemission sources of the second correlated magnet, such that a repulsionforce is generated between the magnets when the filter cartridge isaxially inserted within the sump and moved to the alignment position.

The sump may further include an alignment thread or channel formechanically coupling with a rib or fin extending radially outwards fromthe filter cartridge housing body when the filter cartridge is axiallyinserted within the sump.

In an embodiment, the first correlated magnet is disposed within atranslatable magnet housing of the switch assembly, the magnet housingnormally biased towards the longitudinal axis of the sump by a springand slidable linearly as a result of the magnetic communication in adirection normal to the longitudinal axis of the sump to contact theactuator to activate the switch.

In still another aspect, the present invention is directed to a filtercartridge, comprising a housing having a body and a top portion forminga fluid-tight seal with the body, the top portion including ingress andegress fluid ports, and an axially-extending protrusion integral with orconnected to the housing top portion, a filter media disposed with thehousing body, and a first correlated magnet disposed within or connectedto the housing top portion axially-extending protrusion and having aface oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the housing body. In anembodiment, the axially-extending protrusion is off-axial center of thefilter housing top portion. The first correlated magnet comprises aplurality of magnetic field emission sources having positions andpolarities relating to a predefined spatial force function thatcorresponds to a predetermined alignment of the plurality of magneticfield emission sources. The first correlated magnet is adapted to be inclose proximity to a complementary or paired second correlated magnetwhen the filter cartridge is axially inserted into an alignment positionwith a sump of a filter manifold.

In an embodiment, the filter cartridge further includes a rib or finextending radially outwards from the housing body, the rib or finadapted for mechanically coupling with an alignment thread or channel ofthe sump when the filter cartridge is axially inserted within the sump.

In still yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to amethod of interconnecting a filter cartridge and filter manifold,comprising: inserting a filter cartridge comprising a correlated magnetdisposed within or connected to the housing top portionaxially-extending protrusion and having a face oriented parallel to alongitudinal axis of the housing body, as described above, into a sumpof the filter manifold; axially inserting the filter cartridge withinthe sump into an alignment position; aligning the first correlatedmagnet plurality of magnetic field emission sources with a plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources of a complementary or paired secondcorrelated magnet such that a repulsion force is generated between themagnets, the second correlated magnet operably coupled to a switchassembly axially disposed with respect to the sump; and causing thesecond correlated magnet to translate in a direction normal to alongitudinal axis of the sump as a result of the magnetic communicationto contact an actuator to activate the switch.

The sump may further include an alignment thread or channel formechanically coupling with a rib or fin extending radially outwards fromthe filter cartridge housing body, and the method may further comprisethe steps of: aligning the filter cartridge rib or fin with thealignment thread or channel while inserting the filter cartridge withinthe sump; and causing the filter cartridge rib or fin to travel to anend of the alignment thread or channel while axially inserting thefilter cartridge to the alignment position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the invention believed to be novel and the elementscharacteristic of the invention are set forth with particularity in theappended claims. The figures are for illustration purposes only and arenot drawn to scale. The invention itself, however, both as toorganization and method of operation, may best be understood byreference to the detailed description which follows taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an apparatus of the prior art having two componentsmagnetically attached to one another;

FIG. 2 depicts a quick connect air hose coupling of the prior artshowing placement of correlated magnets for attachment;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of a green filter cartridge accordingto an embodiment of the present invention. The filter cartridge includesa first correlated magnet radially attached to one of the filtercartridge end caps;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of a green filter cartridge accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, with the dry change sleeveremoved;

FIG. 5 depicts a side plan view of a filtration system including a greenfilter cartridge and corresponding filter manifold according to anembodiment of the present invention, with the filter cartridge in anuninstalled position. The filter manifold includes a second, pairedcorrelated magnet operably coupled to an electronic switch for engagingdownstream system functions;

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of a locking plate for a filtermanifold in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of the locking plate of FIG. 6 with alocking cover for a filter cartridge according to an embodiment of thepresent invention in an installed position;

FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of the filter cartridge locking coverof FIG. 7 ;

FIG. 9 depicts a perspective, cross-sectional view of FIG. 7 taken alongline A-A, showing a boss or lug radially disposed on the locking coverbeing received and guided in an alignment rail or thread of the manifoldlocking plate as the filter cartridge moves into the installed position;

FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of a switch assembly in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the switch assembly of FIG. 10 ,with mounting bracket removed to show the interior components of theassembly;

FIG. 12 depicts a side plan view of the filtration system of FIG. 4 ,with the filter cartridge in an installed position and the switchactivated;

FIG. 13 depicts a perspective, cross-sectional view of the filtrationsystem of FIG. 12 ;

FIG. 14 depicts a side, plan view of the filtration system of FIG. 13 ,showing the position of the paired correlated magnets when the filtercartridge is in an installed position;

FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of a filtrationsystem including a filter cartridge and corresponding filter manifoldaccording to the present invention, with the filter cartridge in anuninstalled position. In this embodiment, the filter cartridge includesa correlated magnet positioned parallel to the surface of the filterhead and the matching, “keyed” second correlated magnet is operatingcoupled to a mating surface of the manifold for engaging an electronicswitch;

FIG. 16 depicts a perspective view of the filtration system of FIG. 15 ,with the filter manifold hidden to show the initial position of thecorrelated magnets;

FIG. 17 depicts a perspective view of the switch assembly according toan embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 depicts an exploded view of the switch assembly of FIG. 17 ;

FIGS. 19 and 20 depict perspective and side, cross-sectional views,respectively, of the filtration system of FIG. 15 in an uninstalledposition;

FIGS. 21 and 22 depict perspective and side, cross-sectional views,respectively, of the filtration system of FIG. 15 , with the filtercartridge rotated 90-degrees within the filter manifold toward aninstalled position;

FIGS. 23 and 24 perspective and side, cross-sectional views,respectively, of the filtration system of FIG. 15 , in an installedposition;

FIG. 25 depicts a graph of the magnetic holding force as a function ofrotation angle as the pair of correlated magnets are rotated within aneffective working distance in accordance with the method of installationshown in FIGS. 19-25 ;

FIG. 26 depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of a filtercartridge according to the present invention, including a firstcorrelated magnet extending upwards from a top portion of the filtercartridge housing, parallel with a longitudinal axis of the filtercartridge housing;

FIG. 27 depicts a perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 26 ,with the filter cartridge housing removed;

FIG. 28 depicts a perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 26and a mating filter manifold, in an uninstalled position. The filtermanifold is partially transparent to depict the paired correlated magnetand switch assembly of the manifold;

FIG. 29 depicts a perspective view of the switch assembly of FIG. 28 ;

FIG. 30 depicts a perspective view of the filter interconnect of FIGS.28-29 ;

FIG. 31 depicts a perspective view of the filter interconnect of FIG. 30, with the filter manifold being partially transparent to show theinterconnection between the filter cartridge ingress and egress portsand the ingress and egress stanchions of the filter manifold;

FIG. 32 depicts a perspective, cross-sectional view of the filterinterconnect of FIG. 28 , taken along line C-C;

FIG. 33 depicts a perspective, cross-sectional view of the filterinterconnect of FIG. 28 , taken along line C-C, showing the filtercartridge being partially inserted into the filter manifold; and

FIG. 34 depicts a perspective, cross-sectional view of the filterinterconnect of FIG. 28 , taken along line C-C, showing the filtercartridge in a connected or INSTALLED position or state, with the limitswitch activated.

FIG. 35 illustrates a graph of varying magnetic forces of correlatedmagnets that depend on the relative rotational orientation of a pair ofmagnets (e.g., repulsion-attraction-repulsion-attraction at 90 degreeintervals).

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S)

In describing the embodiments of the present invention, reference willbe made herein to FIGS. 1-35 of the drawings in which like numeralsrefer to like features of the invention.

Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to betaken as a limitation of the invention. For example, words such as“upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “horizontal,”“vertical,” “upward,” “downward,” “clockwise,” “counterclockwise,”“longitudinal,” “lateral,” or “radial”, or the like, merely describe theconfiguration shown in the drawings. Indeed, the referenced componentsmay be oriented in any direction and the terminology, therefore, shouldbe understood as encompassing such variations unless specifiedotherwise. For purposes of clarity, the same reference numbers may beused in the drawings to identify similar elements.

Additionally, in the subject description, the words “exemplary,”“illustrative,” or the like, are used to mean serving as an example,instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as“exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily intended to beconstrued as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or design.Rather, the use of the words “exemplary” or “illustrative” is merelyintended to present concepts in a concrete fashion.

Correlated magnets, also interchangeably referred to herein as codedpolymagnets, contain areas of alternating poles. These patterns ofalternating poles can concentrate and/or shape magnetic fields to givematching pairs of magnets unique properties. The present inventionutilizes correlated magnet designs with “high auto-correlation and lowcross-correlation” which is a characteristic of correlated magnets whichonly achieve peak efficacy (magnet attraction or repulsion) when pairedwith a specific complementary magnet. An example of such use ofcorrelated magnets is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,314,671 issued toCorrelated Magnets Research LLC on Nov. 20, 2012, entitled “KEY SYSTEMFOR ENABLING OPERATION OF A DEVICE.” Correlated magnets are alsocharacterized by dense and tunable magnetic fields, allowing forspecifically engineered force curves with higher force at shorterworking distances.

In addition, correlated magnets can be designed to have varying magneticforces depending on the relative rotational orientation of the pair ofmagnets (e.g., repulsion-attraction-repulsion-attraction at 90-degreeintervals) as illustrated on the graph of FIG. 35 .

The present invention utilizes a magnetic repulsion model applied to afilter interconnect, which allows for a higher degree of control andflexibility over the timing and actuation of critical system functionsthrough an engineered system of correlated magnets, springs and simplemachines. Integral to the design is a matching set of “keyed” correlatedmagnets disposed in/on the filter cartridge housing and filter manifold,respectively, which provide the initial drive to engage downstreamfunctions through non-electric and non-contacting actuation of anelectronic system. The embodiments of the present invention describedherein illustrate the actuation of a downstream valve (e.g., spool valveor other valve design) to allow for the flow of water; however, itshould be understood by those skilled in the art that actuation of avalve is only one example of a downstream component intended to bewithin the scope of the present invention and that other components arenot precluded, such as a dosing system or other electronic system.

This is accomplished by having a pair of magnets, preferably correlatedmagnets, oriented parallel to one another on each component of theconnecting pair when in an alignment position, wherein a first codedpolymagnet is disposed on a filter cartridge and a complementary, pairedcoded polymagnet is located on the manifold designed to secure thefilter cartridge into position. It should be understood by those skilledin the art that a “correlated magnet” or “coded polymagnet” as referredto herein may comprise a single magnet with a plurality of polarityregions or, alternatively, may comprise multiple magnets arranged tocreate a polarity pattern with the desired characteristics. In at leastone embodiment, a thin layer of material is introduced, physicallyseparating the two polymagnets so they cannot have physically contactingsurfaces, but they can still magnetically repel one another.

When a correct set of “keyed” polymagnets are aligned and brought intoan effective working distance, the result is a repulsion force betweenthe two magnets. The polymagnet disposed on the filter cartridge isfixed; however, the corresponding polymagnet disposed in/on the matingfilter manifold is permitted to translate, acting against the mechanicalforce of a spring. The function of the magnet located on the manifold isto assist in actuating a valve (e.g., spool valve, cam and poppet valve,and other valve types) through activation of an electronic switch,normally biased in a first position by a spring. As will be described inmore detail below, the force curves of the spring and correlated magnetcouple are engineered such that only a set of corresponding “keyed”polymagnets will provide sufficient magnetic force to overcome thespring force to activate the switch. When the spring is fully depressed,one or more critical system functions are actuated, i.e., upstreamand/or downstream valves, dosing systems, or other electronic systems,for example.

During installation, the filter cartridge may be guided by an alignmentrail or thread and boss/lug system so that the correlated magnetdisposed on the filter cartridge and the corresponding correlated magneton the manifold are aligned (in-phase forming a repulsion force) but notin contact, when in the INSTALLED-LOCKED position. In at least oneembodiment, the correlated magnet in the manifold physically actuates alimit switch when repelled by the filter magnet. When the filter isfirst fully inserted into the manifold in an INSTALLED-UNLOCKEDposition, the O-rings are sealed but the filter and manifold magnets arenot aligned, and consequently, the upstream and/or downstream valve(s)are not open and water is not permitted to flow through the filterelement. The filter assembly is then rotated 90-degrees into theINSTALLED-LOCKED position, which brings the “keyed” correlated magnetsinto alignment, thereby achieving peak efficacy (magnetic repulsion),overcoming a spring force and causing the manifold magnet to translatelinearly to actuate a limit switch. In an embodiment, the positiveengagement of the switch opens upstream and/or downstream valves andallows for the flow of water.

Referring now to FIGS. 3-14 , collectively, one embodiment of the filtercartridge and manifold of the present invention is shown. Replaceablefilter cartridge 30 comprises a filter media 32 encased between end caps34, 36 and includes a correlated magnet 40 located at the cartridge topend proximate the outside surface of the cartridge body. End cap 36includes a manifold cup 35 integral therewith for securing filter media32 and facilitating connection to manifold 50. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, end cap 34 may include a downward, axially-extending magnetic housing39 which secures on its outside surface or embedded therein magnet 40.Filter cartridge 30 further includes an axial stem 31 comprising ingressand egress fluid ports. Filter cartridge 30 is initially insertablewithin a sump housing 56 in manifold 50 into a partially-INSTALLEDposition, wherein the O-rings are sealed but the downstream valve(s) arenot open and water is not permitted to flow (FIG. 5 ). Surroundingfilter media 32 and filter cup 35 is a dry change sleeve 33 forming thefilter cartridge body, which is disposed between filter media 32 andsump 56 when the filter cartridge is inserted into the sump.

As shown in FIG. 5 , and best seen in FIGS. 6-7 , in an embodiment,manifold 50 may include a radially-extending locking plate 51 includingan aperture for permitting insertion of filter cartridge 30 into sump 56and further including an alignment rail or thread 52 representing an“entry track” for filter cartridge 30 by receiving filter boss or lug 44of locking cover 42 when filter cartridge 30 is inserted within sumphousing 56 and connected to manifold 50. Thread 52 may be a “Z-thread”and is threaded to allow for 90-degree rotation of the filter cartridge30 from a first, unlocked position to a second, locked position, asshown in FIG. 6 . It should be understood by those skilled in the artthat alignment thread 52 is not limited to a “Z-thread” or othercontinuous, segmented path, and that otherwise-shaped continuouspathways or threads are within the scope of the invention so long as thethread functions to bring the correlated magnets 40, 54 within aneffective working distance as the filter cartridge is inserted withinthe sump. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , a locking cover 42 may beconnected to filter cartridge end cap 34 to aid in filter assemblyinstallation. As the locking cover 42 is rotated, boss or lug 44 travelsalong alignment rail 52 to its end, pushing the filter cartridge axiallydownward (i.e., into the sump). As can be seen in FIG. 13 , this endrotational position of boss or lug 44 within alignment rail 52 placesthe filter cartridge 30 and filter magnet 40 in an alignment positionfor filtering operation. In the embodiment shown, locking cover 42 isrotatable about the longitudinal axis of the sump, while the filtercartridge translates axially and does not rotate; however, it should beunderstood by those skilled in the art that in other embodiments, endcap 34 and locking cover 42 may be one molded piece rather than twoconnected structures, such that the filter cartridge rotates into thealignment position. In still other embodiments, the filter assembly doesnot include a locking cover and the filter cartridge end cap includes aboss or lug radially disposed on an outer surface thereof for beingreceived in an alignment channel or track of the manifold.

As further shown in FIG. 5 , and best seen in FIGS. 10-11 , manifold 50includes a correspondingly “keyed” or paired correlated magnet 54positioned for alignment with filter magnet 40 when boss or lug 44 is atthe end of alignment rail 52. Magnet 54 is part of a switch assembly 60for actuating a downstream valve. As shown in FIG. 10 , switch assembly60 is disposed within mounting bracket 66 and comprises magnet 54,spring 62 and actuator 64 mechanically linked to a set of contacts forlimit switch 68. Magnet 54 is non-rotatable but slidable linearly withinmagnet housing or holder 58 in a direction normal to the longitudinalaxis of the sump. Holder 58 with magnet 54 is operably coupled withlimit switch 68, which is normally biased in the closed position byspring 62.

When filter magnet 40 and manifold magnet 54 are in alignment andbrought into an effective working distance, as shown in FIGS. 12-14 ,the result is a repulsion force between the two magnets. The forcecurves of the spring 62 and magnet couple 40, 54 are engineered suchthat at peak efficacy, there is sufficient magnetic repulsion force toovercome the spring force of the switch, compressing the spring in thedirection of the arrow, as shown in FIG. 14 , and causing holder 58 tocome into contact with actuator 64 to make the electrical connection toactivate limit switch 68. When the spring is fully depressed, limitswitch 68 is activated, which in turn actuates a valve (not shown),allowing for the flow of water. In one embodiment, as best seen in FIG.14 , when the filter cartridge 30 is in the INSTALLED-LOCKED position,filter magnet 40 and manifold magnet 54 are in an effective workingdistance of approximately 4 mm. Disposed between the magnets when thefilter cartridge is connected to the manifold is a portion of sumphousing 56, which prevents contact between magnets 40, 54 while stillallowing for magnetic cooperation. Sump housing 56 is a molded piece ofthe filter manifold and acts as the pressure vessel for the filtercartridge, which is typically a plastic filter housing surrounding thefilter media. The lack of a pressure bearing filter housing on thereplaceable filter cartridge reduces the amount of plastic needed duringmanufacture of the filter cartridge and promotes “green” filtering. Inan embodiment, filter cartridge 30 may include a sheath or other thinmaterial layer comprising the filter cartridge “body,” shown in FIG. 3as polyethylene dry change sleeve 33, surrounding the filter media(which cannot absorb pressure) and is intended to allow for removal andreplacement of the filter cartridge from the manifold by a user withoutcontacting the wet filter media.

As further shown in FIG. 14 , in an embodiment, spring 62 requires anadditional 4 mm of travel to activate the limit switch 68, and thereforethe paired correlated magnets 40, 54 are adapted to produce sufficientmagnetic repulsion force for a distance of approximately 8 mm. Providinga magnetic repulsion force sufficient to double the required distancewill safely accommodate design and manufacturing tolerances, and ensureswitch activation. In that correlated magnets are characterized by denseand tunable magnetic fields, it is possible to specifically engineerforce curves with higher force at shorter working distances. Aconventional magnet would be unable to produce sufficient magnetic forceover such a short effective distance without significantly increasingthe physical size of the magnet, which would present design feasibilityissues. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that forphysically small magnets like those used in the present invention,correlated magnets are preferable because of the strength advantageattainable at very short working distances. It should be furtherunderstood by those skilled in the art that 4 mm is shown as aneffective working distance between the magnets for exemplary purposesonly, and that in other embodiments the effective working distance maybe shorter than 4 mm, in accordance with design requirements. Aneffective working distance of greater than 4 mm is also achievable.

In addition to providing the initial drive to engage downstream systemfunctionality, the magnetic communication between the filter andmanifold magnets 40, 54 has the added benefit of providing filterauthentication and anti-counterfeiting measures. Unless the polarityarrays or patterns of the correlated magnets 40, 54 are correspondingly“keyed” or paired, the magnetic communication will not actuate theswitch assembly 60 and therefore the valve will not open to allow forwater flow. As such, only a genuine OEM filter cartridge will functionand a non-OEM or counterfeit filter cartridge will be non-operational.This also limits the counterfeiting market, which is especiallyimportant with respect to the safety of consumers seeking clean drinkingwater who believe that they may be able to save money by purchasing anon-authentic replacement filter cartridge which mechanically mayconnect to a mating manifold, but may nonetheless not have an enclosedfilter media which is as effective for removal of contaminants orimpurities in water as that of the filter media of a genuine replacementpart.

Referring now to FIGS. 15-24 , collectively, another embodiment of thepresent invention is shown, wherein the polarity arrays or patterns ofthe correlated magnets are characterized by relativerotational-orientation specific force curves. FIG. 15 shows the filterinterconnect in an UNINSTALLED position. Replaceable filter cartridge130 comprises an otherwise conventional filter media disposed withinfilter housing body 132. Filter cartridge 30 further includes an axialstem 131 and a first correlated magnet 140 disposed in the stem,parallel to the surface of the filter head 133 (FIG. 16 ). Filtercartridge 130 is initially insertable within a sump 156 in manifold 150into an INSTALLED-UNLOCKED position, wherein the O-rings are sealed butthe downstream valve(s) are not open and water is not permitted to flow(FIG. 15 ).

As shown in FIG. 16 , in this embodiment, the pair of correlated magnetsare positioned parallel to the surface of the filter head and the matingsurface of the manifold, respectively. The filter magnet 140 is fixed inplace, while the mating “keyed” manifold magnet 154 is part of a switchassembly 160 for actuating a downstream valve (not shown) and issupported by a spring 162 but is prevented from rotating. As shown inFIG. 17 , switch assembly 160 comprises a second, paired correlatedmagnet 154 disposed within magnet holder or cap 158, which is normallybiased in an extended axial position (i.e., toward filter magnet 140) byspring 162. Disposed within spring 162 is limit switch 168, which may beactivated by actuator 164, and switch 168 connected to PCB 169. Base 159completes the switch assembly. As shown in FIG. 17 , PCB 169 may beconnected to downstream system components, such as downstream valve(s),via lead wires.

The rotation of the filter during installation modulates the magneticinteraction from a region of net attraction/neutral to peak repulsion.

An alignment track or thread and associated filter boss system,comprising an alignment thread 152 on the manifold and a boss or lug 144radially disposed on the filter cartridge housing 132, may beincorporated to provide control over the timing of the filter-manifoldmagnet orientation and working distance. FIGS. 19-24 depict one methodof installation of filter cartridge 130 into manifold 150. As shown inFIGS. 19-24 , alignment thread 152 may be a “Z-thread” for receivingfilter boss or lug 144 as filter cartridge 130 is rotated into anINSTALLED-LOCKED position. FIG. 19 shows filter cartridge 130 in aninitial, uninstalled position. At position A, in the initialinstallation step, the thread or track system functions to bring thefilter and manifold magnets 140, 154 into an effective working distanceand provides a mechanical advantage to seat the O-rings. At thisrelative orientation, the resulting magnetic force can be attractive,neutral or weakly-repulsive. As shown in the cross-sectional view ofFIG. 20 , and also shown in FIG. 16 , at position A, magnets 140, 154are 90-degrees out of phase or alignment.

At position B, as shown in FIGS. 21-22 , the filter O-rings are fullyseated and the correlated magnet pair are within an effective workingdistance, but approximately 45-degrees out of phase. The relativeorientation of the magnets enters a net repulsion region atapproximately 45-degrees from alignment; however, the magnetic repulsionforce is not sufficient to overcome the opposing spring force and drivethe correlated magnet-spring system. As shown in FIGS. 23-24 , atposition C, filter cartridge 130 is rotated into the INSTALLED-LOCKEDposition or state, and the correlated magnet pair continue to be withinan effective working distance. However, the relative orientation of themagnets has now resulted in peak repulsion (i.e., the magnets are inphase), producing a repulsion force which is sufficient to drive thecorrelated magnet-spring system and actuate the intended downstreamsystem function(s). As shown in FIG. 24 , the repulsion force betweenmagnets 140, 154 has caused magnet holder 158 to translate axiallydownward in the direction of the arrow, thereby compressing spring 162and causing actuator 164 to activate limit switch 168, therebypermitting intended downstream system function, such as actuation of avalve to allow filtered egress fluid flow.

In an embodiment, there may be a notch or detent at the end of thealignment thread to provide tactile feedback indicating successfulinstallation of the filter cartridge.

The filter cartridge may be removed by reversing the actions describedabove and rotating the filter cartridge in the opposite direction, andextraction may be assisted by the magnetic repulsion force and thespring force. In at least one embodiment, there may be a dedicated exittrack or rail which may exploit the net magnetic repulsion region tosupport extraction and removal of the filter cartridge.

FIG. 25 depicts the magnetic holding force as a function of rotationangle as the pair of correlated magnets are rotated within an effectiveworking distance. As shown in FIG. 24 , in one embodiment the pair ofcorrelated magnets are at an effective working distance of approximately1.5 mm when the filter cartridge is in an INSTALLED-LOCKED position.

It should be understood by those skilled in the art that in otherembodiments, the polarity arrays or patterns of the correlated magnetsare not characterized by relative rotational-orientation specific forcecurves, and the repulsion force exists regardless of magnet orientation.In such an embodiment the magnet patterns may be concentric, forexample, and would not require rotation of the filter cartridge andassociated correlated magnet in the theta direction to align thepolarity arrays between the paired magnets to produce the desiredrepulsion force.

Referring now to FIGS. 26-34 , collectively, another embodiment of thefilter cartridge and manifold of the present invention is shown. Filtercartridge 230 comprises a housing 270 having a body 272 and a topportion 274 forming a fluid-tight seal with the body. Top portion 274includes fluid ingress and egress ports 276, 278. An otherwiseconventional filter media 232 is sealed between end caps 234, 236 withinthe filter housing body 272. In this embodiment, filter cartridge 230includes a filter magnet 240 extending axially from the filter cartridgehousing top portion 274, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filtercartridge housing body 272. As shown in FIG. 26 , filter housing 270includes an upward axially-extending portion 242 extending from topportion 274 integral with and off axial center of the filter housing,within which magnet 240 is disposed. It should be understood by thoseskilled in the art that in other embodiments, magnet 240 may instead bepositioned within a magnet housing attached to the filter cartridgehousing by other means, such as being connected to housing top portion274 by snap fit or friction fit. Other means of attachment, such aswelding or bonding, are not precluded.

As shown in FIG. 28 , filter cartridge 230 is insertable in an axialdirection (as shown by arrow 1) within sump housing 256 between a firstposition, wherein the O-rings are sealed but the downstream valve(s) arenot open and water is not permitted to flow, and a second alignmentposition (FIG. 34 ). As further shown in FIG. 28 , manifold 250 includesa correspondingly “keyed” correlated magnet 254 positioned for alignmentwith filter magnet 240 when filter housing 270 is inserted fully intosump 256, i.e., in the second alignment position, as shown in FIG. 34 .Manifold magnet 254 is non-rotatable but is translatable linearly in adirection normal to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge.Manifold magnet 254 is operably coupled with switch assembly 260 viamagnet holder 258, which is normally biased in the closed position by aspring 262 (FIG. 29 ). Switch assembly 260 is disposed within mountingbracket 266 and comprises magnet 254, spring 262 and actuator 264 forlimit switch 268. In an embodiment, spring assembly 260 may be identicalor substantially similar to spring assembly 60 as shown in FIGS. 10-11 .When filter magnet 240 and manifold magnet 254 are in alignment andbrought into an effective working distance, the result is a repulsionforce between the two magnets. The force curves of the spring and magnetcouple 240, 254 are engineered such that at peak efficacy, there issufficient magnetic repulsion force to overcome the spring 262 force ofthe switch, compressing the spring in the direction of the arrow, asshown in FIG. 29 . When the spring is fully depressed, holder 258contacts actuator 264 to activate limit switch 260, which in turnactuates a valve (not shown), allowing for the flow of water.

In one or more embodiments, manifold 250 may include an alignmentchannel for receiving at least a portion of filter cartridge 230therein, to ensure that filter cartridge 230 is axially inserted intothe sump 256 to allow for proper alignment of the filter and manifoldmagnets when in the alignment position. As shown in FIGS. 30-31 , filtercartridge 230 includes a radially-extending rib or fin 286 on thehousing body 272 which aligns with channel 252 in manifold 250 whenfilter cartridge 230 is properly inserted in sump 256. As best seen inFIGS. 32-34 , when the filter cartridge is in the alignment position,disposed between the magnets is a portion of manifold 250, whichprevents contact between magnets 240, 254 while still allowing formagnetic cooperation.

In addition to providing the initial drive to engage downstream systemfunctionality, the magnetic communication between the filter andmanifold magnets 240, 254 has the added benefit of providing filterauthentication and anti-counterfeiting measures. Unless the polarityarrays or patterns of the correlated magnets are correspondingly“keyed”, the magnetic communication will not actuate the switch 260 andtherefore the valve will not open to allow for water flow. As such, onlya genuine OEM filter cartridge will function and a non-OEM orcounterfeit filter cartridge will be non-operational.

It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the presentinvention is not limited to magnetic communication between the filtercartridge correlated magnet and the corresponding manifold correlatedmagnet in the form of magnetic repulsion, and that other magneticcommunication is not precluded. For example, in one or more embodiments,a shear force could be introduced as the filter cartridge is installedin the manifold, such that the manifold magnet is caused to move in aradial, or alternatively, lateral direction with respect to the filtercartridge magnet as the filter cartridge is moved into theINSTALLED-LOCKED position. Such radial or lateral movement could alsoactivate a limit switch to open a valve, as in the embodiments shown inthe Figures.

In such an embodiment, each of the filter and manifold magnets comprisesat least one correlated magnet (or an array of correlated magnets),where the polarity transitions of each of the magnets are aligned suchthat a net shear force is generated between the magnets when the filtercartridge is inserted within the manifold sump housing and moved into analignment position, allowing for direct or indirect actuation ofdownstream system functionality via mechanical actuation of simplemachines.

Thus, the present invention achieves one or more of the followingadvantages. The present invention provides an improved filterinterconnect which utilizes correlated magnetism to provide the initialdrive to engage downstream system functionality, allowing for a higherdegree of control and flexibility over the timing and actuation ofdownstream system function. By utilizing magnetic repulsion, the presentinvention further allows for non-electronic and non-contacting actuationof a downstream electronic system, which overcomes the technical hurdlesof using electronic interconnects of the prior art which present issuesof fluid reaching the electronic components, and provides an improvedfilter interconnect which prevents leaking by dissociating the initialfilter cartridge installation from the actuation of an upstream and/ordownstream valve. The present invention further has applications inalternate methods of filter authentication and anti-counterfeiting.

While the present invention has been particularly described, inconjunction with specific embodiments, it is evident that manyalternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. It istherefore contemplated that the appended claims will embrace any suchalternatives, modifications and variations as falling within the truescope and spirit of the present invention.

Thus, having described the invention, what is claimed is:
 1. Afiltration system comprising: a filter manifold including: a sump; anelectronic switch assembly comprising a circuit actuable between openand closed positions, the switch assembly axially disposed with respectto the sump; and a first correlated magnet operably coupled to theswitch assembly, the first correlated magnet comprising a plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources having positions and polarities relatingto a predefined spatial force function that corresponds to apredetermined alignment of the plurality of magnetic field emissionsources; and a filter cartridge including: a housing having a body; afilter media disposed with the housing body; a filter head forming afluid-tight seal with the body; and a complementary or paired secondcorrelated magnet disposed within or connected to the filter head andhaving a face oriented parallel to a top surface thereof, the secondcorrelated magnet rotatable with the filter cartridge; wherein the firstand second correlated magnets are interconnected via magneticcommunication upon insertion of the filter cartridge into the sumphousing, and upon rotation of the filter cartridge into an alignmentposition, the first correlated magnet translates axially with respect toa longitudinal axis of the sump as a result of the magneticcommunication to contact an actuator to activate the switch.
 2. Thefiltration system of claim 1 wherein the first and second correlatedmagnets each comprise an array of correlated magnets.
 3. The filtrationsystem of claim 1 wherein the first correlated magnet plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources are aligned with a plurality of magneticfield emission sources of the second correlated magnet, such that arepulsion force is generated between the magnets when the filtercartridge is inserted within the sump and rotated to the alignmentposition.
 4. The filtration system of claim 1 wherein the sump includesan alignment thread or channel for mechanically coupling with a filterboss or lug extending radially outwards from the filter cartridgehousing body when the filter cartridge is inserted within the sump androtated to the alignment position.
 5. The filtration system of claim 4wherein the filter cartridge rotates approximately 90-degrees in a firstdirection from an initial insertion position within the sump to thealignment position.
 6. The filtration system of claim 1 wherein themanifold further includes a valve, and wherein activation of the switchactuates the valve to turn on and turn off fluid flow to the filtercartridge.
 7. The filtration system of claim 1 wherein the filtercartridge further includes an axial stem and the second correlatedmagnet is disposed within the axial stem, parallel to the top surface ofthe filter head.
 8. The filtration system of claim 1 wherein the firstcorrelated magnet is disposed within a translatable magnet holder of theswitch assembly, the magnet holder normally biased towards the filterhead by a spring and slidable axially along the longitudinal axis of thesump as a result of the magnetic communication to contact the actuatorto activate the switch upon rotation of the filter cartridge into analignment position.
 9. A filter cartridge, comprising: a housing havinga body; a filter media disposed within the housing body; a filter headforming a fluid-tight seal with the body; an axial stem extending from atop surface of the filter head and comprising fluid ingress and egressports in fluid communication with the filter media; and a firstcorrelated magnet disposed within or connected to the axial stem andhaving a face oriented parallel to a top surface thereof, the firstcorrelated magnet rotatable with the filter cartridge upon insertioninto a sump of a filter manifold, the first correlated magnet comprisinga plurality of magnetic field emission sources having positions andpolarities relating to a predefined spatial force function thatcorresponds to a predetermined alignment of the plurality of magneticfield emission sources.
 10. The filter cartridge of claim 9 furtherincluding a filter boss or lug extending radially from the housing body,the filter boss or lug adapted for mechanically coupling with analignment thread or channel of the sump.
 11. The filter cartridge ofclaim 10 wherein the filter cartridge rotates approximately 90-degreesin a first direction from an initial insertion position within the sumpto the alignment position.
 12. The filter cartridge of claim 9 whereinthe first correlated magnet comprises an array of correlated magnetseach comprising a plurality of magnetic field emission sources, thearray of correlated magnets arranged in accordance with the predefinedspatial force function that corresponds to the predetermined alignmentof the plurality of magnetic field emission sources.
 13. A method ofinterconnecting a filter cartridge and filter manifold, comprising:inserting the filter cartridge into a sump of the filter manifold, thefilter cartridge comprising a housing having a body, a filter mediadisposed within the housing body, a filter head forming a fluid-tightseal with the body, and a first correlated magnet disposed within orconnected to the filter head and having a face oriented parallel to atop surface thereof, the first correlated magnet being rotatable withthe filter cartridge, the first correlated magnet comprising a pluralityof magnetic field emission sources having positions and polaritiesrelating to a predefined spatial force function that corresponds to apredetermined alignment of the plurality of magnetic field emissionsources; rotating the filter cartridge within the sump into an alignmentposition; aligning the first correlated magnet plurality of magneticfield emission sources with a plurality of magnetic field emissionsources of a complementary or paired second correlated magnet such thata repulsion force is generated between the magnets, the secondcorrelated magnet operably coupled to a switch assembly axially disposedwith respect to the sump; and causing the second correlated magnet totranslate axially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the sump as aresult of magnetic repulsion to contact an actuator to activate theswitch.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the sump includes analignment thread or channel for mechanically coupling with a filter bossor lug extending radially outwards from the filter cartridge housingbody, and further comprising the steps of: aligning the filter boss orlug with the alignment thread or channel while inserting the filtercartridge within the sump; and causing the filter boss or lug to travelto an end of the alignment thread or channel while rotating the filtercartridge to the alignment position.
 15. The method of claim 14 whereinthe filter cartridge rotates approximately 90-degrees in a firstdirection from an initial insertion position within the sump to thealignment position.
 16. A filtration system comprising: a filtermanifold including: a sump; an electronic switch assembly comprising acircuit actuable between open and closed positions, the switch assemblyradially disposed with respect to the sump; and a first correlatedmagnet operably coupled to the switch assembly, the first correlatedmagnet comprising a plurality of magnetic field emission sources havingpositions and polarities relating to a predefined spatial force functionthat corresponds to a predetermined alignment of the plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources; and a filter cartridge including: ahousing having a body and a top portion forming a fluid-tight seal withthe body, the top portion including: ingress and egress fluid ports; andan axially-extending protrusion integral with or connected to thehousing top portion; a filter media disposed with the housing body; anda complementary or paired second correlated magnet disposed within orconnected to the housing top portion axially-extending protrusion andhaving a face oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the housingbody; wherein the first and second correlated magnets are interconnectedvia magnetic communication upon axial insertion of the filter cartridgeinto an alignment position within the sump, and upon movement of thefilter cartridge into the alignment position, the first correlatedmagnet translates in a direction normal to a longitudinal axis of thesump as a result of the magnetic communication to contact an actuator toactivate the switch.
 17. The filtration system of claim 16 wherein thefirst and second correlated magnets each comprise an array of correlatedmagnets.
 18. The filtration system of claim 16 wherein the firstcorrelated magnet plurality of magnetic field emission sources arealigned with a plurality of magnetic field emission sources of thesecond correlated magnet, such that a repulsion force is generatedbetween the magnets when the filter cartridge is axially inserted withinthe sump and moved to the alignment position.
 19. The filtration systemof claim 16 wherein the sump includes an alignment thread or channel formechanically coupling with a rib or fin extending radially outwards fromthe filter cartridge housing body when the filter cartridge is axiallyinserted within the sump.
 20. The filtration system of claim 16 whereinthe manifold further includes a valve, and wherein activation of theswitch actuates the valve to turn on and turn off fluid flow to thefilter cartridge.
 21. The filtration system of claim 16 wherein thefirst correlated magnet is disposed within a translatable magnet housingof the switch assembly, the magnet housing normally biased towards thelongitudinal axis of the sump by a spring and slidable linearly as aresult of the magnetic communication in a direction normal to thelongitudinal axis of the sump to contact the actuator to activate theswitch.
 22. A filter cartridge, comprising: a housing having a body anda top portion forming a fluid-tight seal with the body, the top portionincluding: ingress and egress fluid ports extending axially upward fromthe top portion, the ingress and egress fluid ports radially offset froma center axis of the housing body; and an axially-extending protrusionintegral with or connected to the housing top portion; a filter mediadisposed with the housing body; and a first correlated magnet disposedwithin or connected to the housing top portion axially-extendingprotrusion and having a face oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis ofthe housing body, the first correlated magnet comprising a plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources having positions and polarities relatingto a predefined spatial force function that corresponds to apredetermined alignment of the plurality of magnetic field emissionsources.
 23. The filter cartridge of claim 22 further including a rib orfin extending radially outwards from the housing body, the rib or finadapted for mechanically coupling with an alignment thread or channel ofa sump of a mating filter manifold when the filter cartridge is axiallyinserted within the sump.
 24. A method of interconnecting a filtercartridge and filter manifold, comprising: inserting the filtercartridge into a sump of the filter manifold, the filter cartridgecomprising a housing having a body and a top portion forming afluid-tight seal with the body, the top portion including ingress andegress fluid ports, and an axially-extending protrusion integral with orconnected to the housing top portion, a filter media disposed with thehousing body, and a first correlated magnet disposed within or connectedto the housing top portion axially-extending protrusion and having aface oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the housing body, thefirst correlated magnet comprising a plurality of magnetic fieldemission sources having positions and polarities relating to apredefined spatial force function that corresponds to a predeterminedalignment of the plurality of magnetic field emission sources; axiallyinserting the filter cartridge within the sump into an alignmentposition; aligning the first correlated magnet plurality of magneticfield emission sources with a plurality of magnetic field emissionsources of a complementary or paired second correlated magnet such thata repulsion force is generated between the magnets, the secondcorrelated magnet operably coupled to a switch assembly axially disposedwith respect to the sump; and causing the second correlated magnet totranslate in a direction normal to a longitudinal axis of the sump as aresult of the magnetic communication to contact an actuator to activatethe switch.
 25. The method of claim 24 wherein the sump includes analignment thread or channel for mechanically coupling with a rib or finextending radially outwards from the filter cartridge housing body, andfurther comprising the steps of: aligning the filter cartridge rib orfin with the alignment thread or channel while inserting the filtercartridge within the sump; and causing the filter cartridge rib or finto travel to an end of the alignment thread or channel while axiallyinserting the filter cartridge to the alignment position.
 26. Afiltration system comprising: a filter manifold including: a sump; anelectronic switch assembly comprising a circuit actuable between openand closed positions, the switch assembly axially disposed with respectto the sump; and a first correlated magnet operably coupled to theswitch assembly, the first correlated magnet comprising a plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources having positions and polarities relatingto a predefined spatial force function that corresponds to apredetermined alignment of the plurality of magnetic field emissionsources; and a filter cartridge including: a housing having a body; afilter media disposed with the housing body; a filter head forming afluid-tight seal with the body; and a complementary or paired secondcorrelated magnet disposed within or connected to the filter head andhaving a face oriented parallel to a top surface thereof; wherein thefirst correlated magnet plurality of magnetic field emission sources arealigned with a plurality of magnetic field emission sources of thesecond correlated magnet such that a repulsion force is generatedbetween the magnets when the filter cartridge is inserted within thesump and translated axially to an alignment position, and upon axialmovement of the filter cartridge into the alignment position, the firstcorrelated magnet translates axially with respect to a longitudinal axisof the sump as a result of the magnetic repulsion to contact an actuatorto activate the switch.
 27. The filtration system of claim 26 whereinthe plurality of magnetic field emission sources of each of the firstand second correlated magnets are arranged concentrically so as togenerate the magnetic repulsion when in the alignment position.
 28. Afilter cartridge, comprising: a housing having a body; a filter mediadisposed within the housing body; a filter head forming a fluid-tightseal with the body; an axial stem extending outwardly from a top surfaceof the filter head and comprising fluid ingress and egress ports influid communication with the filter media; and a coded polymagnetdisposed within or connected to the axial stem and having a faceoriented parallel to a top surface thereof, the coded polymagnetcomprising a plurality of magnetic field emission sources havingpositions and polarities relating to a predefined spatial force functionthat corresponds to a predetermined alignment of the plurality ofmagnetic field emission sources.